Khao Lak is a serene coastal town in Thailand that not many seem to know about. Offering more than just beaches, it provides endless adventure beyond the shore for you and your family.
Where Is It?
It’s in the Phang Nga province of southern Thailand, about an hour’s drive north of Phuket. Set along the Andaman Sea, Khao Lak offers a more peaceful alternative to the busy beaches of Phuket. The town is surrounded by lush forests, mountains, and national parks, so there’s plenty to do.
If you’re a family of nature lovers always looking for something fun and exciting, Khao Lak will have you outdoors at all hours!
Where to Stay
Even though Khao Lak is not as famous as Phuket, it does have a good accommodation sector offering a range of options. There are budget places, of course, but if you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, you’ll definitely find it.
Why not indulge and allow yourself to get a bit carried away? After all, you’re on holiday! Among the five-star Khao Lak family hotels, you’ll find the likes of Avani Khao Lak Resort.
Best Time to Go
It’s Thailand, so any time is a good time to visit, but the dry season from November to April is considered the best. Depending on who you ask, these months bring the best weather, with warm temperatures and calm seas. It’s perfect for activities like water sports and island-hopping.
However, if you’re the sort of family that prefers to avoid large crowds, you may be better off visiting from May to October. It’s technically the rainy season, but the rain doesn’t last long, meaning you’ll still find opportunities to be outdoors.
Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park
For a family looking for something to do beyond the beach, Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park is ideal. With lush forests, towering mountains, and wildlife, the park offers plenty of activities for everyone.
You can hike along the well-marked pathways and spot birds, monkeys, and various local plants. If you enjoy a bit of a challenge, there are more demanding trails that lead to stunning viewpoints.
The park is also home to waterfalls where you can kick off your shoes and relax.
International Tsunami Museum
For a trip down memory lane, visit the International Tsunami Museum. Granted, it won’t be the most joyous experience, but visiting the museum is a must for families. Housed in a two-story building on Phetkasem Road, it recounts the tragic story of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
The museum is dedicated to preserving memories and educating future generations on what took place. Step inside to find a collection of photos and videos of the tsunami’s impact on Khao Lak. You’ll also find a police boat that was stranded during the disaster.
The museum also explains how a tsunami forms. More importantly, it showcases the cultural and psychological responses to the calamity.
Sea Turtle Conservation Centre
You don’t have to snorkel or dive to see the beautiful marine life of Khao Lak – just visit the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre. It’s run by the Royal Thai Navy’s Third Fleet.
Many turtles are at risk of being trapped in fishing nets or hunted for their meat, and this centre plays a vital role in their rescue. There are newly hatched turtles, as well as anemones and fish. You can join a half-day or full-day tour to learn about the turtles’ incubation process and the work being done to protect them.
This conservation centre also offers bamboo rafting. Give it a go if you want to enjoy some adventure while supporting a good cause.
Ton Chong Fa Waterfall
Go swimming in Tong Chong Fa Waterfall, located in Khao Sok National Park and surrounded by beautiful countryside and mountains. The waterfall is also known as the Free Natural Showers, as there are several natural swimming pools perfect for a swim on a hot afternoon.
It’s so peaceful down there, so if you ever feel like getting away from all the beach craze, make your way towards the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall.
Nightlife
Khao Lak has a lively nightlife that anyone can enjoy. You can sip cocktails with ocean views, listen to live music and enjoy the sight of bonfires.
For a bit of Thai culture, watch a cabaret show. For a more relaxed evening, pop by the seafood shacks under palm trees to enjoy delicious seafood.